prc14

Hi-

I will be spending three days in Olympic national park in about 2 weeks and want to know all the best things to do! (it is my first time there). I am staying at a cabin in rainforest resort village, which looks like it is in the south west corner, right on Lake Quinault. we are very active people and are looking to do any and all of the following: hiking, kayaking, watching a sunset, hot springs, lake swimming, etc.

What are the best things to do? How easy is it to get to other parts of the park? (ie- should we stick to our section or try to get around more). Where are there hot springs? what are the best hiking trails where you get to see the most different things? (so maybe one hike in a rainforest climate, one where you can see the mountains, etc.)

We are open to any and all suggestions!

Thanks!

sunbum1944

Did you know that Lake Quinault is closed to everything but wading and swimming- no boats or fishing- not even paddle boards so hope that won't affect your plans. We did some of the short hikes around the lodge area which are well marked. Had a nice lunch at the lodge on the deck .

Last year I stayed at Lake Crescent Lodge- loved kayaking on the lake there - and we hiked Hurricane Ridge which was spectacular.

Spent a day at Sol Dac Hotsprings and was not impressed- too many bodies in each pool. There is a nice waterfall hike close by but did not do it. Heard it was nice though. Not sure about driving distance, but my opinion is that the drive to Hurricane Ridge is worth it.

elberko

Have you looked st the official NPS site?
http://www.nps.gov/olym/index.htm

happytrailstoyou

It turns out that Ruby Beach, the Hoh Rain Forest, Lake Crescent (with its hike to Marymere Falls), Sol Doc, and Hurricane Ridge are not conveniently located in relation to the cabin you booked.

HTtY

sunbum1944

There is a great visitors center close to the lodge- should be helpful in finding activities, providing maps etc